Since many have undertaken to write down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, I too decided after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed.
Luke 1:1-4

Recently I attended the Session meeting where we were privileged to have a conversation with our new confirmands: Manderley Barthel, A.J. Brescia, Riley Hicks, Landon Olmert, and Michael Premuto. As Dr. Negley had informed us that they had been reading through the Gospels I was intently curious to discover which gospel was their favorite. They did not all agree as to which gospel was their favorite. I was not surprised!

By far my favorite gospel is that one written by Luke. It is my favorite because it includes the birth narrative of Jesus as well as many favorite parables. While I love Luke, if it were the only gospel I had to read, then I would sorely miss the Sermon on the Mount, which is found only in Matthew. While I love Luke, if it were the only gospel I had to read, then I would sorely miss the “I am” sayings of Jesus found only in John. While I love Luke, if it were the only gospel I had to read, then I would sorely miss Mark’s use of the word “immediately” stressing that Jesus had places to go and things to do that would lead to His crucifixion, death, and resurrection.

It is great to have a favorite gospel, but this little devotion reminds us that we need the entire collection of the gospels to bring Jesus Christ into our light so that we may marvel at the many facets of His remarkable life. Enjoy your favorite gospel when you claim one, but also continue to read regularly through the other three gospels so that your knowledge of our Savior and Lord increases day-by-day.

Prayer

Dear God, we are grateful that the four evangelists wrote gospels that are near and dear to our hearts. While we may choose a personal favorite, we need to read and study all four of the gospels as we seek to increase our knowledge of Jesus and as we strive to learn how He would have us to live our lives. In His precious name, we pray. Amen.